Delhi buzzed with diplomatic energy as India’s BRICS 2026 presidency launched with the maiden Sherpas and Sous-Sherpas meeting on February 9-10. The event, presided over by Economic Relations Secretary Sudhakar Dalela and Joint Secretary Shambhu L. Hakki, united representatives from 10 member nations to forge a collaborative future.
Brazil, China, Egypt, Ethiopia, Indonesia, Iran, Russia, Saudi Arabia, South Africa, and UAE delegates engaged deeply on India’s vision rooted in PM Modi’s people-first approach. Priorities spanned health, farming, employment, disaster management, climate action, energy security, tech innovation, counter-terrorism, and financial reforms.
A highlight was External Affairs Minister Dr. S. Jaishankar’s launch of the BRICS 2026 theme—’Building Resilience, Innovation, Cooperation for Sustainable Development’—along with its logo and portal. Sessions tackled institutional evolution, economic ties, youth engagement, sports, culture, and forums including think tanks, civil society, business, and women entrepreneurs.
Delegates experienced India’s heritage firsthand, visiting the Handloom Museum, Crafts Academy, and majestic Akshardham. Regular Sherpa interactions ahead will ensure seamless progress on these fronts. Named after the trusty Sherpa guides of the Himalayas, these envoys will steer BRICS leaders toward shared prosperity.
India’s formal takeover of the presidency on January 13, 2026, signals a bold chapter for multipolar cooperation.